On Friday, October 4 from 6-10 p.m., celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park under a magnificent clear-top tent just outside the gates to the bridge. Starry Starry Night promises to be an enchanting evening among great friends at the Ulster Welcome Center Plaza. This upscale cocktail party will feature delicious food prepared by Chef Edward Kowalski, wine from Millbrook Vineyards, craft beer from Half Time, a silent auction, and a stunning fireworks display. Robert R. Dyson and Lucy Rockefeller Waletzky serve as honorary chairs, with Michael Dupree and Evelyn Panichi hosting the event.

“Starry Starry Night is the Walkway’s signature fundraiser,” said Michael Dupree, event host and co-chair of the organizing committee. “We’ve raised the bar for the evening, as the Walkway celebrates ten amazing years.”

The event honorees are Carol Ash, chair of the Carey Institute for Global Good and a past commissioner of New York State Parks, and Joan K. Davidson, president of Furthermore Grants in Publishing and the past chair of the New York State Quadricentennial Commission.  Walkway volunteer ambassador Michele Dalbo will also be recognized for her decade of service to the Friends of the Walkway Over the Hudson.

“Being able to honor Carol Ash and Joan Davidson makes this year’s Starry Starry Night truly special,” said Elizabeth Waldstein, Executive Director, Walkway Over the Hudson. “Both of these accomplished women were instrumental in garnering high-level support for the construction of the Walkway. Their continuing dedication has helped propel the bridge into the world-renowned landmark that it is today.”

Tickets cost $175, and sponsorship opportunities are available.  For more information, visit walkway.org/starrystarrynight.

Over the past decade, funds raised at events like Starry Starry Night have been instrumental in the construction of the Walkway’s waterfront elevator, merchandise pavilions, welcome centers, and more.  Contributions also support a robust volunteer program and a significant community events calendar throughout the year. 

This year, Starry Starry Night kicks off the Friends of the Walkway Over the Hudson’s Campaign To Sustain and will assist the organization in completing the key projects listed below. 

East Gate Arrival Plaza

In Spring 2020, construction is set to begin on the Walkway’s new East Gate Arrival Plaza (the area just outside of the Poughkeepsie entrance atop the Washington Street stairs). This will include an redesigned plaza, new Friends Pavilion with room for shopping, increased seating, and a covered space with audio and video capabilities for use by tour groups and special events.

Light The Walkway

To improve safety and security, enhance nighttime events, simplify closing procedures, and further showcase the Hudson Valley, Walkway is leveraging state-of-the-art technology to improve lighting both on and under the bridge deck.

Parker-Washington Corner Park

Walkway is committed to improving its anchor neighborhoods.  In Poughkeepsie, the creation of a park on the corner of Washington Street and Parker Avenue will be a transformative project. With landscaping, new sidewalks, and seating, this space will give visitors a positive first impression of the bridge and the surrounding community.

 Accessibility and Sustainability

Walkway wants everyone in the world — regardless of their circumstances and level of ability — to see our sweeping views and experience the magic of the Walkway. As we enter our second decade, we are steadfastly committed to building on our reputation as one of the most accessible and environmentally-friendly parks in New York State.